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Office of Human Resources - March 28, 2018
Dear Colleague,
The University of Minnesota is committed to providing a safe environment for teaching, learning, and community outreach. That commitment includes the safety of minors who visit campus or take part in University-sponsored programs.
The University's Safety of Minors Policy reaffirms our dedication to providing a safe environment for children, and it is important that all of us understand our responsibilities.
Requirements for All Employees
University policy states that:
- It is everyone's duty to protect the safety of minors in our programs and on our campuses. All University faculty, staff, and volunteers are required to report suspected child neglect or abuse.
- In suspected cases of abuse or neglect, your first report should be to law enforcement (including the University of Minnesota Police Department), even before you report to a University supervisor.
- You must report suspected child abuse or neglect promptly. If you believe a child could be in immediate danger, call 911 right away. If the child is not in immediate danger, notify law enforcement as soon as possible but within 24 hours.
The policy is meant to protect anyone under the age of 18 who is:
- Participating in University-sponsored programs held on or off University property
- Enrolled in academic programs at the University
- Participating in programs operated by non-University organizations on University property
Our responsibilities to minors include reporting:
- Physical abuse: Any physical injury or threat of substantial injury, other than by accident
- Sexual abuse: A criminal sexual act or threatened act against a child
- Neglect: The failure of the child's caregiver to:
- Supply necessary food, clothing, shelter, medical or mental health care, or appropriate supervision
- Protect the child from conditions or actions that endanger the child
- Ensure that a child is educated according to the law
- Mental injury: Harm to the child's psychological or emotional stability to an extent that substantially impairs the child's functioning
Requirements for Staff of Programs Primarily Intended for Minors
Beyond these basic responsibilities for everyone, University faculty and staff who are involved in programs primarily intended for minors have additional requirements:
- The programs must be registered with the University.
- Program staff and volunteers in covered programs must complete an online training course and pass a background check.
- Programs must follow specific University requirements for the health and safety of minors.
Our awareness and willingness to take responsibility, regardless of our roles or job duties, will ensure that the University continues to be a safe and enriching environment for young people.
Sincerely,
Kathy Brown
Vice President for Human Resources
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